You Don't Say! SLP Real Talk, Advice and Strategies

Most new speech-language pathologists enter their Clinical Fellowship feeling overwhelmed, underprepared, and unsure how to truly grow—despite doing everything “right.” But what if your CF year was never meant to feel this way?In this episode, Hylan and Nikki break down the real purpose behind the Clinical Fellowship and why so many SLPs—and employers—misunderstand it. They share how the CF was designed to bridge the gap between grad school and real-world practice by building independent clinical thinking, not just completing hours.You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of the difference between supervision and mentorship, how to advocate for the support you actually need, and what to look for in a job to set yourself up for success. They also unpack common misconceptions about the CCC and licensure, and introduce practical tools to help you move from uncertainty to confident clinical decision-making.Whether you’re a CF, a soon-to-be grad, or a mentor supporting new clinicians, this episode will shift how you approach the CF year—and help you make it count.

In our Season 2 premiere, we’re tackling a critical issue that could significantly impact the future of speech-language pathology: the potential removal and restructuring of CPT code 92507.This isn’t just a billing change—it’s a shift that could affect how we deliver care, how we’re reimbursed, and how Clinical Fellows are trained and supported. We break down what 92507 actually represents, why it matters, and what could happen if communication treatment is divided into narrower, more restrictive codes.We also walk you through the bigger picture—how insurance and reimbursement systems work, why CMS decisions matter, and how these changes could ripple into private practice sustainability, job opportunities, supervision models, and access to care for our clients.Most importantly, we talk about what YOU can do. As SLPs, our voices matter—and this is a moment to use them.👉 You can submit your feedback and concerns directly through the AMA Interested Party Portal here:https://cptprocess.ama-assn.org/RequestForChangeWhether you’re a Clinical Fellow, early career SLP, seasoned clinician, or practice owner, this episode will give you the clarity and tools you need to stay informed, advocate effectively, and protect the future of our field.🎧 Tune in and join the conversation—because this one affects all of us.

On this Episode, we’re breaking down the new CMS supervision and billing changes—and what it means for CFs in the medical setting/SNFs and could potentially mean for private practices, supervisors, and ultimately, patient care. We’ll walk you through the basics of credentialing, what insurance billing actually involves, and why understanding these systems is critical for SLPs—especially those in the private practice or medical settings. Whether you’re a CF just stepping into the field or a seasoned clinician navigating shifting regulations, this episode will help you make sense of the red tape, understand how these changes could affect mentorship models, job offers, and access to care.Tune in for a no-fluff breakdown that empowers you to advocate for yourself, your practice, and the future of our profession.

Let’s talk about what no one prepared us for in grad school—toxic work environments. In this episode of You Don’t Say, we’re unpacking the real signs of workplace toxicity and sharing the red flags that new SLPs need to recognize before they’re knee-deep in burnout. From subtle gaslighting and lack of mentorship to unrealistic productivity demands and “smile-through-it” culture, we’re calling it out.We’ll share stories from the field, offer practical tips to advocate for yourself, and give you the tools to walk away with confidence when something doesn’t feel right. Because your career shouldn’t cost your well-being.🎧 Tune in if you’re:An SLP and unsure what’s “normal”Feeling stuck in a job that drains youReady to trust your gut and protect your peace

In this episode, we dive into how SLPs can best support and manage difficult cases. We break down the essential steps to take when dealing with tough situations, such as the importance of a whole child approach, how to assess the child's needs holistically, and the resources you can tap into for support. We also share strategies for staying confident and resilient while navigating complex cases. Tune in for practical tips, tools, and a preview of our new program, Pediatric Pathways, launching soon to help you thrive in your pediatric SLP career!

In this episode, we walk you through exactly what to expect from Step One of your CF journey—from what your supervisor will expect from you, to how your workplace might (or might not) support you, to the thoughts and feelings that are totally normal to have in those first few weeks. We’ll share real-world examples, common surprises, and actionable steps you can take now to feel more grounded and confident during this big transition. Whether you're counting down to Day One or already in the thick of it, this episode is here to remind you: you’re not alone, and you’ve got this.

In this episode, we give a quick update on what we presented at the CSHA conference and dive into what to expect during the first three months of your Clinical Fellowship (CF). We’re covering all the things they don’t tell you in grad school—what it really feels like to transition from student to clinician, the questions you should be asking, and the kind of support you might not even realize you need. Plus, we share some of our own experiences to help you feel more prepared and confident as you navigate this new chapter. If you’re a CF or about to start, this one’s for you!

Ready to kickstart your Clinical Fellowship but feeling lost in the paperwork? In this episode, we break down the step-by-step process of applying for your state licensure, what you need to do for ASHA, and how to navigate the road to becoming an SLP. Grab your checklist and let’s get you licensed!

Finding the right Clinical Fellowship (CF) placement is a crucial step in your SLP journey! In this episode, we explore how to choose the best setting for you, the key questions every CF should ask, and what to look for when researching placements. We also share our personal experiences and insights from supervising CFs and SLPs across different settings. Whether you're preparing for your CF or guiding someone who is, this episode will help you make an informed decision.

In this episode, we open up about why we chose the path of speech-language pathology, sharing the experiences that shaped our journey. Then, we focus on the top questions every Clinical Fellow should be asking in interviews. These game-changing questions will empower CFs to make confident decisions when evaluating job offers, ensuring they find the best fit for their career growth. Tune in for essential advice that will guide you through the interview process with clarity and confidence!

In our very first episode, you'll meet Hylan and Nikki, SLPs, private practice owners and mentors. As Founders of The Mentorship Collective, we’re pulling back the curtain and sharing our SLP journeys—how we met, our Clinical Fellowship (CF) experiences, and the challenges that shaped us into the SLPs we are today. From the questions wewish we had asked as CFs to the hard lessons we learned along the way, we’re getting real about the highs, the struggles, and everything in between.We’ll also dive into why we createdThe Mentorship Collective and what you can expect from this podcast—real talk, advice, and mentorship to help you grow and thrive in your SLP career. Whether you’re a CF or a seasoned pro, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it! 🎧#YouDontSayPodcast #SLPRealTalk #MentorshipForSLPs #ClinicalFellowship #SLPLife